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Customs goes tough on bonded terminal operators over serial infractions on operational guidelines 

– set to review licensing fees of owners 
— may revoked licenses of defaulters
Funso OLOJO 
The Nigeria Customs Service is set to review the licensing fees of bonded terminal operators as well as their operational procedures due to serial infractions of the owners on customs guidelines.
The Comptroller- General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, who was apparently reacting to the three bonded terminals shut by the Apapa command of the service recently, said the service is likely to introduce tougher guidelines and stricter penalties to engender sanity in the operations of bonded terminals in the country.
It could be recalled that Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, the Area Controller of the Apapa command of the customs, while giving the revenue performance of the command in the first half of the year, revealed that three bonded terminals were shut for various infractions committed.
It was independently gathered that the shut bonded terminals were accused of serial underpayments of required fees and charges as well as found culpable in the series of seizures of fake, expired and unregistered pharmaceuticals products stemmed to their facilities.
However, the CGC, while showcasing another 25 containers of illicit pharmaceuticals products at the Apapa port on July 11th, 2025, announced total ban of bonded terminals from receiving pharmaceutical products due to what he described as the undisguised abuse of operational procedures by the operators.
Also, Adeniyi disclosed that the service is set to review the licensing fees of operators of these facilities which he described as not in tune with the present realities in the country.
He stated that the present licensing fees have been in operation over a decade ago and have become grossly inadequate and unrealistic.
In addition, the CGC revealed that the operational procedures of the bonded terminals which he accused the operators of flagrantly flouting, will now be reviewed to reflect the international best practices.
He warned that henceforth, defaulters of customs guidelines on the operations of bonded terminals will have their licenses revoked.
Speaking on the three bonded terminals shut by Apapa Customs, Adeniyi said they were found to have engaged in underpayment of appropriate dues and fees and hinted that they may have been found complicit in the series of seizures of illicit phamacitical products.
According to him, some of them have started paying back.
“We have recovered the sum of N500 million from one of them.
” I have also been told that another one has paid N1.5 billion while I understand that another N1.6 billion will be paid by one of them before the month runs out”
Notwithstanding these payments, the CGC said their licenses may be revoked at the end of investigations into the various infractions they committed.
To establish a bonded terminal in Nigeria, operators need to register with the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and pay a registration fee.
 The initial registration fee is N200,000 and there is an annual renewal fee of N100,000.
In addition to these fees payable to the NPA, there are also fees payable to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), which are assessed based on the specific operations and type of goods handled.
NPA Registration Fee: N200,000, payable to the NPA revenue account.
NPA Annual Renewal Fee: N100,000.
Fees Payable to NCS: These are not fixed and are determined based on the assessment of the specific operations and type of goods handled by the terminal.
Other Potential Fees: There may be additional fees associated with specific services, such as those charged by terminal operators for handling exports.
The process of setting up a bonded terminal also involves obtaining necessary permits and licenses from the NPA and the NCS.
The NCS is the primary authority for all customs matters and is responsible for regulating and overseeing bonded terminals.
In summary, while the core registration and renewal fees are with the NPA, the NCS plays a crucial role in regulating and assessing the specific fees associated with the bonded terminal operations.
To establish a bonded terminal in Nigeria, operators need to register with the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and pay a registration fee. The initial registration fee is N200,000, and there is an annual renewal fee of N100,000. In addition to these fees payable to the NPA, there are also fees payable to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), which are assessed based on the specific operations and type of goods handled.
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Customs

Relief as Customs grants January 31st, 2026 extension for fast track operators to migrate to AEO

Funso Olojo
The Nigeria Customs Service has now extended the earlier December 31st, 2025 deadline for the migration of importers from fast track scheme to Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) to January 31st, 2026.
The extension, according to the Customs Authority, is meant to absorb more fast track operators into the AEO programme, deepen trade facilitation, secure supply chain and strengthen compliance in line with global standards.
As a result of the extension, Customs high command advised all existing Fast Track beneficiaries who are yet to complete their migration are to initiate and conclude their AEO applications through the official platform: aeo.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng.
“The extended timeline provides operators with ample opportunity to meet programme requirements and secure AEO certification without disruption to their business operations.
” For enquiries, technical support, or guidance, stakeholders may reach the dedicated helpdesk via aeo@customs.gov.ng.
“Only companies duly certified under the AEO Programme will continue to access the facilitation privileges previously available under the Fast Track Scheme.
The AEO Programme is a globally recognised compliance-based initiative that grants trusted operators enhanced benefits such as expedited cargo release, reduced documentation, lower inspection levels, pre-arrival processing, and greater predictability in cross-border trade.
” The extension reinforces the Service’s commitment to ensuring a seamless and inclusive transition process for all stakeholders.
“This decision to fully migrate from the fast-track scheme to AEO is consistent with the World Customs Organisation (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards and is supported by Sections 108 to 111 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
To further support stakeholders and sustain ongoing sensitisation efforts, the Service will convene another comprehensive Stakeholders Engagement Forum to provide practical guidance on the migration process, demonstrate application procedures, and address compliance-related concerns.
 The forum is scheduled for Thursday, 18 December 2025, at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Lagos, from 0900hrs to 1600hrs.
“Participants will have the opportunity to interact with AEO implementation teams and obtain detailed information on programme requirements, benefits, and operational modalities.
“The NCS urges all fast-track beneficiaries to take advantage of the extension period, participate actively in the engagement forum, and complete their transition to the AEO Programme.
” This proactive involvement not only ensures compliance with applicable regulations but also enhances the supply chain’s effectiveness and sustainability, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits all parties.
“The Service remains committed to driving trade efficiency, enhancing Nigeria’s global competitiveness, protecting national revenue, and promoting a predictable, transparent, and secure cargo clearance ecosystem that supports legitimate business” the agency declared.
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Customs

Again, Customs, NDLEA Collabo intercepts 2,374 packages of Canadian Loud at Apapa Port

– Comptroller Oshoba warns illicit traders against daring resolve of Customs Officers at Yuletide season 
Funso OLOJO 
For the second times in a week,  the impregnable wall of surveillance mounted by the combination of the Apapa Customs and the  National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) against the exit of  illicit drugs from Apapa Port has interdicted a 20- foot container marked FCIU 6369526 laden with 2,374 packages of cannabis concealed in 55 bags with a  total weight of 1,187kg.
This interception, the product of a credible intelligence, came barely 5 days both agencies uncovered 25.5kg cocaine in a Brazilian flagged vessel.
The latest seizure was suspected to be
Canadian Loud, an expensive strain of cannabis concealed inside an imported vehicles.
 Both agencies, in the course of joint examination, discovered the seizure which has been taken into the custody of the NDLEA.
A breakdown of the drugs indicates that they were packed in 500 grams per sachet
Speaking on the seizure, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, Customs Area Controller of Apapa Port Command, commended the robust synergy between the NCS and NDLEA while reiterating the service zero tolerance for smuggling.
 ” Few days ago, I stated that no consignment will exit our control from this port without due check. Our synergy as agencies of government will always put us ahead of criminal elements.
 “No matter the volume of trade we are processing, we will never sacrifice national security and economy for any form of trade.
“While we are focused on collecting maximum revenue for government, our eagle eyed officers are activated to be alert at all times.
 ” Let me warn, once again for the umpteenth time, any trader- importer, exporter, freight forwarder or licensed customs agent that dares our resolve this Yuletide season and beyond ,will face the full wrath of the law.
“Investigations are ongoing on this seizure and we shall bring the perpetrators to book” Comptroller Oshoba said.
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Customs

Comptroller Aliyu vows to sustain onslaught on smugglers as he assumes duties at FOU A

Funso OLOJO 
Comptroller Gambo Aliyu, the new controller of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU ) A of the Nigeria Customs Service, has expressed his determination to sustain the ongoing stranglehold on smugglers and other illicit traders within the Zone
Comptroller Aliu make this pledge on Wednesday, December 10th, 2025 when he assumed duties as the helmsman of the Zone A anti- smuggling unit.
He expressed gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi and his management team for the opportunity to serve in the unit.
The new controller also commended outgoing Controller of the Unit, Muhammed Shuaibu, who has been elevated to an Assistant Comptroller General for his outstanding service, achievement and pledged to consolidate on them for greater success.
“I assure you that we will consolidate on these achievements for even greater successes.
“The FOU Zone A plays a critical role in enforcing compliance,  suppressing smuggling and safeguarding the economic integrity of our dear nation.
” I am aware of the enormous responsibilities that come from this position especially within a zone as strategic, dynamic and challenging as Lagos and its environment.
“However, I am confident that with the cooperation and professionalism of the gallant officers and men of this command , we will continue to fulfill this mandate diligently.”
Aliyu, who until his new disposition, was the Customs Area Controller of Oyo/ Osun Command, outlined other key areas of focus that will guide the unit under his watch to include professional conduct and discipline among officers, stakeholders engagement as well as capacity building and welfare of officers.
He said, “High standards of ethics, discipline and integrity as well as accountability will remain non-negotiable.
” Every officer must ensure that their actions reflect the core values of the service.
“We will deepen collaboration with sister agencies ,community leaders and the trading public to strengthen border security and facilitate lawful trade.
“The motivation and welfare of officers will be prioritized to ensure improved efficiency and operational readiness.”
Aliyu assured stakeholders and the trading public that justice, equity and fairness will guide the unit’s actions at all times.
He added that the unit’s operations under his watch would be underpinned by three cardinal objectives including management change, compliance management, and reputation management.
He called on all officers and stakeholders to join hands with him in this new role, promising to operate an open door policy.
Earlier, in his valedictory speech,  outgoing Controller, ACG Shuaibu, highlighted the unit’s major successes during his seven-month tenure, which began on April 23, 2025.
He stated that the unit recorded a total of 476 interceptions, comprising 761 seized items with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of over N10.151 billion.
Some of the notable seizures listed included: 23,000 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice (equivalent to 38 trailers).
 98 ‘tokunbo’vehicles, 2,350 kilograms of Cannabis Sativa, and 1,820 jerry cans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
Others are 15 assorted rifles and 4,841 rounds of ammunition, two industrial drones, 25 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, and 4 cylinders of Russian-made explosives (each weighing 50kg), seizure of $30,000 and 110 CFA, totaling N31 million, which has been secured as final forfeiture to the Federal Government.
Additionally, he said the unit within the review period arrested 38 suspects and handed over eight containers of expired pharmaceutical products valued at N7.5 billion to NAFDAC, among other items.
Beyond enforcement, ACG Shuaibu stated that the unit recovered a total sum of N419,202,458.85 through demand notices issued on questionable declarations and undervalues, ensuring compliance with import and export regulations.
He attributed the successes to the unwavering support of stakeholders and dedicated officers, urging them to extend the same level of cooperation to Comptroller Aliu.
“I am confident that the foundation we have built will continue to flourish. Our shared objective remains to sustain prudent stewardship and strengthen the fight against smuggling.
” To my successor, I extend heartfelt congratulations on your appointment. I wish you great success and have no doubt that your leadership will usher in new perspectives and further advancement in these pivotal roles, ” he said.
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